Athens, Greece – The Greek Coast Guard carried out two separate rescue operations in the Aegean Sea on Thursday, December 25, 2025, saving 52 migrants from drowning. Efforts are continuing to search for a missing young man, believed to be a minor.
Tragedy in Farmakonisi: Survivors search for their companion
In the first operation in the eastern Aegean Sea, authorities located and rescued 13 migrants. This occurred after they arrived on the small, uninhabited island of Farmakonisi, located near the Turkish coast within the Dodecanese island chain.
Upon their arrival, the survivors reported that a young migrant who had been part of their group was missing during the crossing attempt. The coast guard launched a large-scale search and rescue operation, involving two ships and an air force helicopter, in an effort to locate the missing man amidst challenging weather conditions and difficult sea terrain.
39 migrants rescued south of Crete
In another incident highlighting the widening scope of migration routes, coast guard patrols spotted a small boat carrying 39 migrants. This occurred approximately 44 nautical miles off the coast of Kale Lemnis, south of Crete. Greek authorities confirmed the rescue operation was completed safely, and all the migrants were taken to the city’s port for initial medical care.
Challenges of migration across the Aegean Sea
These operations once again highlight the grave dangers faced by migrants on irregular migration routes from Turkey to Europe. The remote island of Farmakonisi is a frequent arrival point for small boats, due to its proximity to the Turkish coast, despite the treacherous sea currents in the area.
Greek authorities continue to mobilize in response to repeated distress calls. This comes as overcrowded and unseaworthy boats continue to arrive, embarking on perilous sea journeys.
